Lord Vishnu: The Preserver of the Universe

Who is Lord Vishnu, why is he called the preserver of the Universe? 

By Intimate Viewpoint

Introduction

Lord Vishnu is one of the most important and widely worshipped deities in Hinduism. He is revered as the Preserver and Protector of the Universe, responsible for maintaining cosmic order, righteousness (Dharma), and balance between good and evil. Along with Brahma (the Creator) and Shiva (the Destroyer), Lord Vishnu forms the sacred Trimurti of Hindu theology.

Lord Vishnu is known for his compassion, mercy, and protective nature. Whenever the universe is threatened by chaos or injustice, he descends to Earth in different forms known as avatars to restore harmony.

Meaning and Etymology of Vishnu

The word “Vishnu” is derived from the Sanskrit root “Viṣ”, meaning to pervade. Thus, Vishnu signifies “the one who pervades everything”, indicating his omnipresence throughout the universe. He is believed to reside in all beings and in every particle of creation.

Iconography and Physical Description

Lord Vishnu is traditionally depicted as:

Blue-skinned, symbolizing infinity, depth, and the cosmic ocean

Having four arms, each holding a divine symbol

Wearing yellow garments (Pitambara), representing purity and knowledge

Adorned with a crown (Kirita), jewels, and the sacred Kaustubha gem

The Four Divine Symbols

Shankha (Conch – Panchajanya)

Represents the primordial sound “Om”

Symbol of purity, victory, and divine proclamation

Chakra (Discus – Sudarshana Chakra)

A powerful spinning weapon

Symbolizes time, cosmic law, and destruction of evil

Gada (Mace – Kaumodaki)

Represents strength, authority, and discipline

Padma (Lotus)

Symbol of purity, spiritual enlightenment, and divine beauty

Mount and Abode of Lord Vishnu

Mount (Vahana): Garuda, the divine eagle

Represents speed, courage, and devotion

Divine Abode: Vaikuntha

A celestial realm beyond material suffering

Lord Vishnu is often shown reclining on the cosmic serpent Shesha (Ananta) in the Ksheera Sagara (Ocean of Milk), symbolizing eternity and infinite time.

Goddess Lakshmi – Consort of Lord Vishnu

Goddess Lakshmi, the deity of wealth, prosperity, fortune, and abundance, is the eternal consort of Lord Vishnu. She is believed to incarnate alongside Vishnu in his various avatars, such as:

Sita with Rama

Rukmini with Krishna

Their union represents the balance of power and prosperity, duty and abundance.

The Ten Avatars of Lord Vishnu (Dashavatara)

To restore Dharma, Vishnu incarnates in various forms. The most widely accepted list is the Dashavatara:

Matsya (Fish) – Saved sacred scriptures from the great flood

Kurma (Tortoise) – Supported Mount Mandara during Samudra Manthan

Varaha (Boar) – Rescued Earth from demon Hiranyaksha

Narasimha (Man-Lion) – Destroyed Hiranyakashipu to protect Prahlada

Vamana (Dwarf Brahmin) – Subdued King Bali with humility

Parashurama – Destroyer of corrupt Kshatriya rulers

Rama – Ideal king, hero of the Ramayana

Krishna – Divine statesman and teacher of the Bhagavad Gita

Buddha (in some traditions) – Promoter of non-violence and compassion

Kalki (Future Avatar) – Will appear at the end of Kali Yuga to restore righteousness

Lord Vishnu in Hindu Scriptures

Lord Vishnu is glorified extensively in Hindu sacred texts:

Vedas – Vishnu is praised as a cosmic deity

Upanishads – Present Vishnu as the Supreme Reality (Brahman)

Puranas – Especially the Vishnu Purana and Bhagavata Purana

Epics – Ramayana and Mahabharata

Bhagavad Gita – Krishna reveals his universal form (Vishvarupa)

Vishnu as the Supreme Being (Vaishnavism)

In Vaishnavism, one of the major Hindu traditions, Lord Vishnu (or his avatars Krishna and Rama) is regarded as the Supreme God. Devotion (Bhakti) to Vishnu is considered the path to moksha (liberation).

Famous Vaishnava saints include:

Ramanujacharya

Madhvacharya

Chaitanya Mahaprabhu

Festivals Dedicated to Lord Vishnu

Several important Hindu festivals are associated with Vishnu and his avatars:

Vaikuntha Ekadashi

Rama Navami

Janmashtami

Diwali (return of Lord Rama)

Narasimha Jayanti

Symbolic and Philosophical Significance

Lord Vishnu represents:

Preservation of cosmic order

Compassion and mercy

Protection of devotees

Balance between power and righteousness

He teaches that whenever injustice rises, divine help arrives.

Conclusion

Lord Vishnu stands as the eternal guardian of the universe, embodying compassion, balance, and righteousness. Through his countless forms and teachings, he guides humanity toward truth and liberation. His message is timeless: protect Dharma, serve humanity, and live in harmony with the universe.